COURSE CODE: DRA301

COURSE TITLE: Dramatic literature I

PRESENTATION: GROUP 5

Group members
▪︎
Adebisi Helen Oyindamola DRA/2019/002
▪︎ADENIYI PHILIP DRA/2019/010
▪︎
ADEBISI OLUWASHOLA DRA/2019/001
▪︎OLADEJI AYOMIDE DRA/2019/048
▪︎
Akinsanya Abolore DRA/2019/038
▪︎
AUDU GLORIA DRA/2019/024
▪︎ADEBAYO SAMUEL DRA/2019/082
▪︎ ADESOKAN DANIEL DRA/2019/013
▪︎OLANREWAJU OLIWASEGU DRA/2021/175

Question; features of Elizabethan drama using the play "Everyman in his humour" by
Ben Johnson.

Answer:

Every man in his humor is set in London and explores the follies and quirks of
different characters. It explores the follies and quirks of different characters
because it's meant to show the funny and sometimes ridiculous aspects of human
behavior. Firstly, the playwright seeks to give an accurate depiction of the “deeds
and language” of Elizabethan London. Secondly, he wants to fill the play with
characters that “show an image of the times.” If the play can achieve this portrait
of “popular errors,” the audience will laugh at them and agree “there’s hope left”
that they “may like men.” The play highlights how people can have different
personality traits or "humours" that influence their actions and interactions with
others.
By showcasing these quirks and follies, the play aims to entertain the audience and
provide a humorous reflection on human nature. It's all about finding the humor in
our everyday lives and the silly things we do.

So, the play revolves around various characters and their humorous interactions in
London. One of the main characters is Kitely, who becomes suspicious of his wife's
fidelity and goes to great lengths to spy on her.
Meanwhile, Kitely's servant, Brainworm, plays tricks and manipulates situations to
create chaos and confusion. There are also other characters like Captain Bobadill,
who is a braggart soldier, and Master Stephen, who is a gullible and easily
influenced young man. Throughout the play, misunderstandings, disguises, and
comedic situations arise, leading to a hilarious and entertaining story.
Besides Kitely, there are a few other main characters in "Every Man in His Humour".
One of them is Edward Knowell, who is a friend of Kitely and gets caught up in the
chaotic events of the play. Another important character is Justice Clement, who is
a wise and authoritative figure.
These characters, along with others, contribute to the comedic situations and
interactions that drive the plot forward. "Every Man in His Humour" is primarily a
comedy, it does touch upon some real-life problems in a lighthearted way. For
example, it explores themes of jealousy, suspicion, and the complexities of
relationships. It also delves into the idea of self-deception and the lengths
people can go to in order to protect their own egos. These themes and conflicts are
relatable to many people, even in modern times. So, while the play is meant to
entertain and make us laugh, it also offers some insights into human nature and the
follies we all may encounter in our lives.
Elizabethan drama refers to the plays written and performed during the reign of
Queen Elizabeth I, from the late 16th century to the early 17th century. This
period is known for producing some of the greatest works of English literature,
including the plays of William Shakespeare and Ben Jonson.

Ben Jonson's "Every Man in His Humour" is a classic example of Elizabethan drama.
The play is a comedy that explores the theme of humors, which were believed to be
the four fundamental bodily fluids that influenced a person's temperament and
behavior according to the medical theories of the time.

The play is set in London and follows the lives of various characters from
different social classes. The characters are often exaggerated and stereotypical,
representing different humors and personality types. 🃏 The plot revolves around
the attempts of the characters to reform their "humors" and achieve balance in
their lives.

"Every Man in His Humour" is significant for its portrayal of city life and its use
of satire to comment on social and moral issues of the time. Jonson's play reflects
the social and cultural context of Elizabethan London, and it incorporates elements
of farce, wit, and wordplay that were characteristic of the period's drama.

Overall, "Every Man in His Humour" is a prime example of the vibrant and diverse
nature of Elizabethan drama, showcasing the period's unique blend of comedy, social
commentary, and theatrical innovation.

HOW ‘EVERY MAN IN HIS HUMOUR’ RELATED TO ELIZABETHAN DRAMA AND THE AUTHOR’S
CONTRIBUTION TO DRAMA
“Every Man in His Humor” was first performed at the Curtain in the late summer
of 1598.
The plot tells little more than that an intercepted letter enabled a father to
follow his supposedly hard-working son to London and observe his life there
alongside the gallants of the time. The true quality of this comedy lies in its
characters and the theory on which they are based. Ben Jonson had theories about
poetry and drama.
But it wasn’t just Jonson’s theories that contributed to the success of Every
Man in His Humor. The play is admirably written and each character is vividly
portrayed.
This play as a fabric of plot is a very slight affair; but as a satirical picture
of the manners of the time, developed through vivid caricatures, expressed in
witty and brilliant dialogues and sustained by the righteous indignation that
must be at the heart of all true satire, in short, as the realization of the
defiance of the classical ideal of comedy there was nothing like Jonson’s comedy
since the days of Aristophanes.
Every Man in His Humor, contains two types of attacks: the critical or the
generally satirical, directed at abuses and corruption in the abstract; and the
personal, in which all this finds a specific application in the lampooning of
poets and others, contemporaries of Jonson.
Many of Jonson’s notions prevailed for a time and modified the whole trend of
English poetry. First, Jonson was a classicist, that is, he believed in
moderation and precedent in art, in contrast to the prevailing irresponsible
and uncontrolled spirit of the Renaissance. Jonson believed that there was a
professional approach that could be achieved by studying the best examples, and
he found these examples primarily among the ancients. To limit attention to the
drama, Jonson rejected the amateurish and haphazard nature of many contemporary
plays and set out to do something different; and the first and most striking
thing to develop was his conception and practice of the comedy of humors.
In short, Jonson’s comedy of humours conceived stage characters based on a dominant
trait or passion (a notable simplification of real life, be it observed in
passing) and by juxtaposing these typical features in their conflict and contrast,
he kindled the spark of comedy. For example, in the play, Every Man In His Humor,
Bobadilla’s humor is that of a braggart who, incidentally, to wonderfully comic
effect, is a coward; another character whose humor lies in figuring things out to
the point where he fools everyone: of course, he gets fooled in the end.
Ben Jonson’s Every Man in His Humor, made important contributions to Elizabethan
drama in several ways:
Introduction of humor:
Jonson introduced the concept of “humor” to the Elizabethan stage. Each character
in the play embodies a certain mood, represents a temperament or a disposition.
This gave the characters psychological depth and influenced later playwrights.
Realistic and Complex Characters:
The characters in Jonson’s work are more realistic and psychologically complex
than many of their Elizabethan counterparts. The concept of humor allowed for
nuanced characterizations and explored the different facets of human behavior.
Satirical Social Commentary:
Jonson used Every Man in His Humor to satirize the vices and follies of
contemporary London society. The work criticized social norms, behavior and
fashion trends, turning it into a reflective commentary on the cultural and
social panorama of the time.
Naturalistic Language:
Jonson’s use of language in the play was more naturalistic and less poetic than
that of some of his contemporaries. The dialogue approached everyday language and
contributed to a more accessible and relatable theater experience.
Departure from Senecan Tragedy:
While the influence of classical drama, particularly Senecan tragedy, was still
present in Elizabethan drama, Jonson’s work marked a departure from the dominant
tragic style. His emphasis on humor, social satire and realism opened up a new
direction for playwrights.
Focus on Morals and Ethics:
Every Man in His Humor dealt with moral and ethical themes, reflecting Jonson’s
interest in the moral character of the individual. This emphasis on ethical
considerations added depth to the narrative and appealed to the audience’s sense
of morality.
Contributions to comedy:
The play contributed significantly to the development of English comedy. Jonson’s
combination of humor, satire and social commentary set a precedent for the comedy
genre and influenced later playwrights, including Shakespeare.
Theatrical Innovations:
The play was performed by the Lord Chamberlain’s Men at the Globe Theatre,
contributing to the popularization of open-air theaters. The staging and
performance of “Every Man in His Humour” played a role in shaping the theatrical
experience of the time.
Overall, Every Man in His Humor is considered a remarkable work that not only
entertained Elizabethan audiences but also contributed to the development of
English drama and influenced the comedic and thematic landscape of future
playwrights.

Every Man in His Humour" is a comedy written by Ben Jonson in 1598. The play
revolves around
the concept of "humours" in Elizabethan England, which were believed to be bodily
fluids that
influenced personality and behavior. Each major character in the play is dominated
by an
exaggerated version of one of these humours, leading to comedic misunderstandings
and
conflicts.
Here are some of the key themes of the play:
The Folly of Humours: The play satirizes the exaggerated humours of its characters,
showing how they can lead to irrationality, self-deception, and misjudgment. This
theme
serves as a critique of Elizabethan society's obsession with humoral theory.
Deception and Disguise: The characters often engage in deception and disguise, both
to
achieve their goals and to protect themselves from being exposed. This theme
highlights
the importance of appearances in Elizabethan society and the difficulty of
discerning truth
from falsehood.
Love and Marriage: The play explores the complexities of love and marriage,
particularly in
the context of arranged marriages and romantic rivalries. This theme reflects the
changing
social attitudes towards love in Elizabethan England.
Social Order and Hierarchy: The play also touches on themes of social order and
hierarchy,
particularly through the relationship between Kitely, a wealthy merchant, and his
social
inferiors. This theme reflects the anxieties and tensions surrounding social
mobility in
Elizabethan society.

In "Every Man in His Humour," a comedy written by the English playwright Ben
Jonson, the language and style reflect the conventions of Elizabethan drama. The
play was first performed in 1598 and is a prime example of the kind of language and
styles used during the Elizabethan era.It is written in English, and it's
considered an early example of a comedy of humours, a dramatic genre that was
popular in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
Language:
- The language of Elizabethan drama is characterized by the use of poetic and
heightened language. It often includes elaborate metaphors, similes, and wordplay.
- The use of iambic pentameter and blank verse is common in the dialogue of the
characters.
- Dialogue is often formal and ornate, reflecting the courtly language of the time.
Style:
- Elizabethan drama often incorporated elements of comedy, tragedy, and history,
and "Every Man in His Humour" falls into the category of comedy.
- The play features a mix of characters from different social classes, allowing for
a variety of language registers and styles to be used.
- The use of soliloquies and asides, where characters speak directly to the
audience, is also a characteristic feature of Elizabethan drama.
-Johnson's writing in "Every Man in His Humour" is characterized by its use of
satire, wit, and lively dialogue. The play features a mix of comedic situations,
wordplay, and character types that were typical of the period. Jonson's writing
often includes elements of farce and wit, which were popular in Jacobean drama.
Overall, the language and styles used in "Every Man in His Humour" reflect the rich
and complex nature of Elizabethan drama, with its poetic language, varied styles,
and mix of comedic and dramatic elements. The play is known for its blend of
humor, satire, and social commentary, which are conveyed through the language and
style of the characters and their interactions.
The play "Every Man in His Humour" is known as a classic example of Elizabethan
comedy, showcasing Jonson's wit, satirical prowess, and mastery of dramatic
structure. Its enduring popularity lies in its ability to entertain while providing
a window into the societal concerns of its time.
Certainly! "Every Man in His Humour" is a comedy play written by Ben Jonson and
first performed in 1598. Here are key aspects of the play:

The play revolves around the interactions and misadventures of various characters,
each representing a different "humour" or temperament. The main character is
Edward Knowell, who wishes to reform his prodigal friend, Kitely. The plot unfolds
with intertwining subplots involving mistaken identities, love interests, and
humorous encounters and many more.

"Humours", one of the features that was used, a concept from ancient medicine
suggesting that personality traits are influenced by bodily fluids. Characters
embodying different humours contribute to the comedic elements and social
commentary.

The play satirizes various social classes, occupations, and character types of
the Elizabethan society, offering a critical commentary on human folly and societal
norms. The play incorporates the classic comedic device of mistaken identities,
leading to humorous situations and misunderstandings among the characters.

Jonson's sharp wit and clever wordplay are evident throughout the play,
enhancing the humor and engaging the audience with linguistic intricacies. The
characters in the play are diverse, representing different social classes and
temperaments. This diversity contributes to the complexity and richness of the
comedic interactions.

"Every Man in His Humour" offers a satirical critique of societal norms,

highlighting the absurdities and vices prevalent in the Elizabethan society of
Jonson's time.

While primarily a comedy, the play contains moral elements, especially seen in
the prologue, where Jonson emphasizes the virtuous nature of the central character,
Edward Knowell. The play successfully blends comedic elements with moral
reflections, offering entertainment while encouraging the audience to reflect on
societal and individual behavior.

"Every Man in His Humour" by Ben Jonson is a notable example of Elizabethan drama.
Here are some features of Elizabethan drama exemplified in this play:

Blank Verse: The play often utilizes blank verse, unrhymed iambic pentameter, a
hallmark of Elizabethan drama, providing a rhythmic and dramatic quality to the
dialogue.

Dramatic Unity: The author focuses on maintaining a unity of time, place, and
action in line with classical dramatic principles, as opposed to the earlier
medieval tradition.

Humours: A prominent feature is the use of humours, reflecting the belief that
personality traits were influenced by bodily fluids. Characters embody distinct
humours, contributing to both humor and social commentary.
Social Satire: The author satirizes various social classes and their quirks,
offering a critical view of Elizabethan society, which was common in the era's
drama.

Soliloquies and Asides: Characters often engage in soliloquies or asides to reveal

their inner thoughts and emotions directly to the audience, a technique employed
for dramatic effect and to enhance audience engagement.

Complex Plots: Elizabethan drama often featured intricate and interwoven plots.
"Every Man in His Humour" includes multiple storylines that converge and diverge
throughout the play.

Mix of Tragedy and Comedy: The play incorporates both tragic and comic elements,
showcasing the Elizabethan preference for a mix of genres within a single work.

Language and Wordplay: Elaborate language, puns, and wordplay characterize

Elizabethan drama. Jonson's play is no exception, with witty and clever dialogue

Elizabethan plays are mostly often incorporated moral lessons or allegorical

elements. "Every Man in His Humour" explores moral and ethical themes through the
diverse experiences of its characters. Elizabethan theaters embraced elaborate
costumes and visual spectacles to enhance the overall theatrical experience. While
not explicitly detailed in the play's text, such elements were integral to the
broader Elizabethan theatrical tradition. Productions of the time commonly included
music and dance. Though not explicitly written into the script, these elements
added to the entertainment value and were integral parts of Elizabethan theatrical
performances. Elizabethan playwrights, including Jonson, were influenced by
classical models such as Aristotle's dramatic principles. This influence is evident
in the adherence to unity of time, place, and action in "Every Man in His Humour".
The play features dynamic and multifaceted characters who undergo personal
growth or transformation throughout the narrative, contributing to the complexity
of the overall dramatic experience. The language used in Elizabethan drama often
aimed to evoke powerful emotions and engage the audience. "Every Man in His Humour"
employs rhetorical devices and vivid language to create a compelling theatrical
atmosphere.

These features collectively capture the essence of Elizabethan drama, showcasing

its diverse elements that contributed to the richness and popularity of plays
during this historical period.

Role of the Chorus: While not a strict chorus as seen in ancient Greek drama,
Elizabethan plays sometimes included a character or group of characters that served
a chorus-like function. These figures might comment on the action or provide
insight to the audience. In "Every Man in His Humour," certain characters might be
seen in this light.

Supernatural Elements: Elizabethan drama often incorporated supernatural elements,

drawing from folklore and mythology. While "Every Man in His Humour" is primarily
grounded in reality, the broader Elizabethan tradition occasionally featured
elements of the supernatural for dramatic effect.

Political Commentary: Elizabethan plays, including Jonson's works, occasionally

included subtle or explicit political commentary. "Every Man in His Humour" may
offer insights into the political climate of the time through its characters and
plot dynamics.

Ben Jonson, a meticulous and classical playwright, had distinct views on drama and
his role as an author. While direct quotes from Jonson about "Every Man in His
Humour" might be scarce, we can infer his views from his prefaces and other
writings:

Classical Influences: Ben Jonson was influenced by classical principles of drama.

He admired the works of ancient Roman playwrights like Seneca and embraced
classical unities of time, place, and action. "Every Man in His Humour" reflects
this classical influence in its structure and adherence to these principles.

Moral Purpose: The author believed in the moral purpose of drama. In his prefaces,
he emphasized the importance of instructing and reforming the audience through the
portrayal of virtuous characters and actions. The prologue to "Every Man in His
Humour" hints at the play's moral intentions.

Realism and Satire: Ben Jonson was a proponent of realistic and satirical drama.
"Every Man in His Humour" satirizes various social types and behaviors, aligning
with Jonson's inclination to expose and criticize societal follies through comedy.

Intellectual Rigor: Ben Jonson valued intellectual rigor in both the creation and
reception of drama. His plays often demanded intellectual engagement from the
audience, appreciating wit, wordplay, and intricate language. "Every Man in His
Humour" exemplifies Jonson's commitment to linguistic precision and intellectual
depth.

Authorial Authority: The author asserted the authority of the author in shaping the
theatrical experience. He believed in strict control over the presentation of his
plays and often criticized other playwrights for their perceived lack of
craftsmanship. "Every Man in His Humour" reflects Jonson's meticulous approach to
playwriting.

While Ben Jonson's direct thoughts or commentary on "Every Man in His Humour"
aren't readily available, we can explore the play's prologue. Prologues in
Elizabethan drama often provide insight into the author's intentions and views. In
the prologue to "Every Man in His Humour," Jonson emphasizes the purpose and nature
of the play:

Prologue (excerpt):

"It is no pampered glutton we present, Nor aged counsellor to youthful sin; But
one, whose virtue shone above the rest, A valiant martyr for his country's good."

In these lines, Jonson suggests that the play presents a character of virtue,
perhaps implying a moral lesson or a character whose actions reflect qualities
Jonson finds admirable. This gives a glimpse into the author's intention to not
merely entertain but to convey a moral or virtuous aspect through the characters
and plot.

Prologue (excerpt):

:Pardon, old father Time, and be not seen: Behold the soul of youth, this twenty
year, Come blowing up the heavens with a scorn."

Here, Jonson addresses the concept of time and youth, perhaps expressing a desire
to challenge or satirize prevailing attitudes of the time. The play might be seen
as a reflection on societal values and the folly of certain behaviors.

From Act 4, Scene 4:

"So say I, too; my wife shall serve your wife, and you shall serve my wife."

"Why, there's it now: you may go home and cry 'O monstrous!'"

These lines continue to capture the humor, dialogue intricacies, and character
relationships within "Every Man in His Humour." The play's comedic richness lies in
its blend of wit, satire, and the folly of its diverse cast.

Elizabethan theater was a lively and interactive experience. Audiences were

actively engaged in the play, reacting to the scenes, expressing their opinions,
and often becoming part of the performance. "Every Man in His Humour" with its
direct addresses to the audience likely fostered this participatory atmosphere.The
audience in an Elizabethan theater was diverse, including people from various
social classes. Jonson's play, with its satirical elements and exploration of
different social strata, would have resonated with a broad spectrum of the
audience. The blending of comedic and tragic elements in "Every Man in His Humour"
aligns with the Elizabethan taste for plays that encompassed a range of emotions.
The audience likely appreciated the variety in the play's tone and themes.